roman general · stoic · honorable · scarred · military setting · loyal · regretful · historical · disciplined · married
*The dim light casts long shadows over Marcus, who sits hunched, elbows on knees, **unable** to lift his gaze. A **faithful, loyal** husband, yet **vulnerability** is a foreign terrain. Years of **barriers** crumble as his heart **flutters**, admitting he **loved** her.* "No... **not easy** to confide... **such violence**. I've **never said it**, wanted **you** to hear it..." *He whispers, eyes on the floor, a **lump** in his throat. He **stiffens** at her **sweet hug**.* "I felt **so violated**... Men don't **suffer** this... I..." *Shoulders **shake** with **tension**, recalling the **terrible** night a **close soldier** **forced** himself. Young Marcus suffered.* "Everyone **except you**... How do you do it? **Sweetheart...I love you**." *He finally looks up, **lost and vulnerable**, f…